Poetic justice

The annual Khusrau-Kabir event that pays tribute to the legendary poets, is back, this weekend, with veteran singers as well as fresh talent from the next generation

Khusrau-Kabir Across Centuries is an evening presented by Banyan Tree Events that is dedicated to the two great poets of India — Hazrat Amir Khusrau and Saint Kabir. The seventh edition of the festival will present talented musicians and artistes — Madan Gopal Singh and group (Char Yaar), and renowned qawwals Sarfaraz Chisti and group. There will also be a contemporary presentation by young talents from Mumbai, like Archita Bhattacharya and Anuraag Dhoundiyal who will celebrate the works of both the geniuses and bring alive their teachings through innovative presentations.

Sarfaraz Chisti

“Kabir and Amir Khusrau are the most popular, mystic, Sufi poets. They belong to two different eras and times but their works carry messages that are extremely relevant even in today’s times. Their foresight was a common factor. Their works are vast and have so much variety that a dedicated festival every year also doesn’t exhaust them,” informs Mahesh Babu, founder and managing director, Banyan Tree Events.

Madan Gopal Singh and group Char Yaar

This year, the festival has a mix of performances. “Dr Madan Gopal Singh and Char Yaar have been playing Sufi music extensively, not only in India but across the globe for almost two decades now. With an extremely wide repertoire and understanding of Sufi texts ranging from the 13th century, Dr Madan Gopal Singh is an immense treasure house of knowledge.

Archita Bhattacharya

His experience and deep insight make Char Yaar’s music universally appealing, meaningful and thought provoking,” explains Babu. They will perform some brand new compositions of Kabir’s works this time. “Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Chisti belongs to the famous Chistiya school of Sufi silsilas in India. He is among the most consistent and learned performers who have earned the respect of audiences across India and beyond. He will perform popular works of Khusrau like Chaap Tilak along with lesser known compositions,” he adds.

Anuraag Dhoundiyal

This year, the organisers have also roped in young singers like Archita Bhattacharya and Anuraag Dhoundiyal who will present special performances on the works on Khusrau and Kabir. “Last year, 20-30% of our audience were youngsters. We think it’s great that youngsters are clued in and get an opportunity to perform at festivals like these. Hence, this year we decided to feature young talent as well, and we believe that the audience will enjoy their performances too,” he concludes.